Today as South Africans, we celebrate Women’s Day in honor of the 20000+ strong women who stood up for themselves back in 1956, and marched to the Union Buildings to protest against the proposed amendments to the Urban Areas Act of 1950, commonly referred to as the “pass laws”.

There is no better way to celebrate this day than to get inspired by these 5 quotes from women, so that you can find your own power.

Emma Watson

Image via Instagram.

“It is time that we all see gender as a spectrum instead of two sets of opposing ideals.” – Emma Watson.

Besides being a talented actress, Emma Watson is also the spokesperson for the  #HeforShe campaign which aims to promote gender equality.

She gave an inspiring speech at the United Nations in 2014, which was viewed by a lot of people on YouTube.

Malala Yousafzai

Image via The Guardian.

“I raise my voice – not so I can shout, but so that those without a voice can be heard. We cannot succeed when half of us are held back.” – Malala Yousafzai.

Malala Yousafzai is a 21 year old from Pakistani, and the youngest to win a Nobel Prize Laureate.

She is known for being a Human Right’s activist that fought for the education of women, where the local Taliban banned girls from attending school.

She is an inspiration because she understands the importance of education and she is brave by opposing her government until her advocacy grew internationally.

Taylor Swift

Image via Instagram.

“Other women who are killing it should motivate you, thrill you, challenge you and inspire you.” – Taylor Swift.

Taylor Swift is my favourite because she is not afraid of saying what she really feels and she stands up for herself. She is also big on giving back by putting her time and money to great causes.

Lupita Nyongo

Image via Instagram.

“What I have learned is that I don’t have to be anybody else; and that being myself is good enough; and that when I am being true to that self, then I can avail myself to extraordinary things.” Lupita Nyongo.

Lupita Nyongo inspires me because she is comfortable in her own skin, and she didn’t let critics deter her from achieving her goals because she is dark skinned.

Choma, you should know that there is not wrong with how you look and you are very beautiful, so learn from Lupita and be confident with yourself because you are gorgeous, and never let anybody tell you otherwise.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

Image via Innov8tiv.

“The size of your dreams must always exceed your current capacity to achieve them. If your dreams do not scare you, they are not big enough.” – Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf is the first female to be elected as the President 24^thof the Republic of Liberia.

It is not common for women to become presidents, so her being one is an inspiration because it shows that your dreams are valid and they can come true. 

Women’s Day is a very special day to be celebrated because it gives us a reflection of how far that women have come, and their resilience is empowering. If it wasn’t for the brave women of 1956, a lot of us would not be able to enjoy the freedom that we have today, which is why this day is worthy of being celebrated.

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657).